McMinnville Expanding Options For Food Trucks

McMinnville Aldermen passed a new ordinance allowing food trucks to set up in more places around the city.

Community Development Director Sean Garrett said the ordinance designates certain areas of city parks where food trucks will be allowed to operate. Garrett said it also outlines how food trucks can work on commercial properties and how to deal with issues like grease spills.

“Like I said, this is something the city’s been talking about for years,” Garrett said. “And just kind of got batted around and (a) couple different people kind of worked on it and then we’ve just got to the point where we needed to move forward with it. We’re getting a lot more of the mobile food vendors coming to town so it just kind of made sense to get it wrapped up.”

Garrett said there will be a simple permit these vendors will be required to purchase for a small fee. Garrett said they can also apply for the permit online so they can start working as soon as possible.

“I think it’s good to support all vendors and get different types of businesses and vendors within the city,” Garrett said. “Having the variety always helps out with revenue.”

Garrett said the ordinance was designed with inspiration from various food truck ordinances in cities across Tennessee.

“As far as them being able to set up at parks, that kind of offers some different options for people wanting to have lunch or that type of stuff at different locations,” Garrett said. “So they could visit a park, pick something up from the food truck, and enjoy the park and be positive for the city.”

Garrett said they have not heard much feedback about the change from the public but they are open to any input if the ordinance needs to be adjusted in the future.